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Solomon Islands earthquake and tsunami

April 3, 2007

An CWS-Action by Churches Together information update

An 8.0 magnitude earthquake that triggered a tsunami that measured between two and 10 metres in places, struck the Solomon Islands at 7:40 local time on Monday, April 2, killing at least 20 people, leaving thousands homeless, and destroying at least 13 villages in the most severely affected Choiseul and Western Provinces.

Government and Red Cross disaster teams are taking tents and supplies to the affected areas. Australia has offered $1.6 million in aid, while New Zealand offered $360,000 and sent an airforce plane loaded with supplies, including water containers, blankets, tarpaulins, food and lamps according to the news agency Reuters. The United Nations said it had a full Disaster Assessment and Coordination team on standby for deployment to the Solomons.

ACT member Christian World Service, New Zealand, launched an emergency appeal to support the people of the Solomon Islands. Christian World Service said that while reports are still sketchy, in both places (Choiseul and Western Provinces) there has been widespread property damage and loss of life.

Ruth Liloqula from Christian World Service' partner, the Lauru Land Conference based in Choiseul, reported that two metre high waves travelled up to 200 metres inland, causing major property destruction and contaminating drinking water. "It is indeed a very big concern and I just hope that our people got to safer ground," Liloqula said. Her family home, which had already been damaged by the rise in sea level, was swept away by the tsunami. Christian World Service said in a news release that it is clear that beyond the immediate need both for essential food, water, medical care and emergency shelter there is going to be an enormous amount of repair and rehabilitation work required. Christian World Service will use the money raised from its appeal to support communities over the coming months as they rebuild and re-establish their lives.

Church World Service will work with ACT International to explore the best ways to support relief and recovery efforts.

Media Contact:
Lesley Crosson, CWS/New York, 212-870-2676;
Jan Dragin, 781-925-1526;

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